Top 4 Places to Eat in Mandalay

Stunning aerial view of Kuthodaw Pagoda surrounded by lush greenery in Mandalay, Myanmar.
Tony Wu, Pexels

Mandalay's local dining scene is vibrant, heavily influenced by its position at the crossroads of Burmese, Shan, Indian, and Chinese culinary traditions, primarily appealing to those seeking authentic, affordable local flavors and cultural experiences.

1. Mandalay Chinatown Night Market

Cuisine: Street Food (Burmese, Shan, Chinese, Thai)

This bustling night market offers a sensory immersion into Mandalay's street food culture. Operating from early morning with fresh produce, it transforms into a lively hub of food stalls from 6 PM to 11 PM. Visitors can discover a wide variety of affordable local specialties, including Shan noodles, Kyay Oh (pork noodle), pork on stick, and various fried snacks. It is an excellent spot for authentic flavors and observing local life.

Price: 2,000-3,000 MMK (approx. $1-1.5 USD) per meal, highly affordable.

Getting There: Located in the city center, at the intersection of 34th x 76th Street. It is easily accessible by taxi or tuk-tuk, with fares typically ranging from 1,500 to 3,000 MMK. Public buses also pass through 33rd Street, with fares around 300 MMK.

2. Marie Min

Cuisine: Vegan and Vegetarian Burmese Dishes

Marie Min stands out for its dedicated offering of Burmese vegan and vegetarian cuisine, making it a valuable option for diners with specific dietary preferences. It provides an opportunity to explore traditional Burmese flavors in a plant-based format.

Price: Estimated 3,000-8,000 MMK (approx. $1.5-4 USD) per dish, moderate for the local scene.

Getting There: Situated on 27th Street, between 74th and 75th Streets in Mandalay. It is typically within walking or a short taxi/tuk-tuk distance from central areas.

3. Unique Myanmar Restaurant

Cuisine: Myanmar and Chinese Dishes

Beyond its Myanmar and Chinese culinary offerings, Unique Myanmar Restaurant provides a unique cultural experience by featuring captivating puppet and dance performances during dinner service without an additional charge. The atmosphere is vibrant, characteristic of its central, bustling location.

Price: Estimated 8,000-15,000 MMK (approx. $4-7 USD) per person, mid-range.

Getting There: Found at the busy corner of 27th x 65th Street in Mandalay. It is often within a short walk or taxi ride from many central accommodations.

4. Khit Sar Sar Restaurant

Cuisine: Burmese and European Cuisine

Khit Sar Sar is a beautiful, large restaurant with a resort-like ambiance, offering a tranquil escape from the city's bustle. It serves Burmese dishes, including Mandalay Nan Gyi Tote, the city's signature noodle dish, and also provides European options. The setting offers fresh air and pleasant views, making it suitable for a relaxed meal.

Price: Dishes are noted as 'very affordable' for its resort-like setting, indicating a good value for the experience. Estimated 6,000-12,000 MMK (approx. $3-6 USD) per main dish, mid-range.

Getting There: Located approximately 30 minutes drive from Mandalay city center, making a taxi or private car the most convenient transport option.